The great Reformer, Martin Luther, once said that prayer is the breath of the soul. Christians pray! We are a people called to live and to walk in close fellowship
The story of the healing of the paralytic is a picture of God’s work of redemption through Jesus Christ. We are healed—saved—not because we merit favor, but because of the
Sinners don’t deserve God’s kindness, but he raises those dead in sins and trespasses to life in Christ (Eph. 2). Hope rises from the dead in Naomi through Boaz’s kindness
Triple tragedies strike Jacob in chapter 35. The death of his beloved Rachel, his firstborn son’s violation reprehensible sin disqualifying him from leadership, and his father Esau’s death. Yet in
God begins to turn around Naomi’s life in Ruth 2:1-13, a picture of what he does for his church. Ruth ventures into the fields in faith and just “happens” to
What does ‘mystery’ have to do with Paul’s ministry? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is somehow mysterious? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is difficult to understand? Not at
In Ruth 1, God brings back a wandering sheep in Naomi, showing us his grace and power. But Naomi still thinks God has dealt bitterly with her and defines herself
If you lived in the ancient city of Ephesus, the most majestic structure that you would see on a daily basis would be the temple to the pagan goddess, Artemis.
In Genesis 35 we have the “and back again” portion of Jacob’s journey. He comes back to where he started. Jacob’s journey back to Bethel marks the end of a
What happens when you leave the people of God and venture to a far country? And when tragedy strikes there, is there any hope that God’s grace can restore what
There is a transition that occurs between the ministry of John the Baptist and the Ministry of Jesus. John begins to decrease, and Jesus begins to increase. The Lord Jesus
Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act
Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and
Although humanity is dead and lost in sin, with no way to merit favor with God, God is rich in mercy and loves his people with a great love. Those
In this episode, we introduce the Gospel of Mark. We also explore how Mark introduces us to the person of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Of special interest is the
Moses brings us to the height of the conflict between Jacob and Esau. We look at the need to preserve the tension in the story while connecting it to the
In this episode, we consider the reality that mankind, apart from God’s glorious grace, is completely and totally lost in sin. Before Paul moves to extol the riches of God’s
In this episode, we explain the meaning of David’s profession of righteousness. How can David speak about himself as being without guilt, relative to God’s law, when we know he
In part two of Paul’s Prayer we return to consider Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers. Yes, Paul’s burden is that the Ephesian believers would know the Lord. But what specifically
In part one of Paul’s Prayer, we will examine how the apostle Paul prays for the Spirit to be at work so that Christians can know God more. Paul’s thankfulness
Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will
What is a Christian to do with the imprecatory Psalms? Are they to be read and sung today, and if so, with what understanding? Jim Cassidy talks about how to
As Jacob continues toward Canaan in obedience to God’s call, he comes up against another significant obstacle: Esau is coming to meet him Genesis 32:1–12—preparing for conflict with a small
This episode looks at the testing of Jesus that comes on the heels of his baptism. At his baptism, the Father declares “This is my beloved Son, with whom I
Psalm 2 speaks of rebellious kings conspiring together against the Lord and his anointed. But the outcome of such conspiracies is clear. The Son will have the earth as his
In Eph 1:11–14 the Apostle Paul describes the glorious heavenly inheritance of the Christian. He seeks to encourage the Ephesian Christians—many of whom had given up earthly glory—by reminding them
The narrative portions of Scripture serve to highlight the paradigm established by Genesis 3:15. In the story of Jacob and Laban we see primarily not a conflict between two human
We embark on a study through a new book—Psalms. Jim Cassidy provides some important interpretive principles which he illustrates through a consideration of Psalm 1. Written for Israel, a nation
The baptism of Jesus is a pivotal event in the life of Christ and in all of redemptive history. In this episode, we explore its significance, seek to answer the
Jacob exhibits his faith as he responds in obedience to the Lord’s command to return to the land of his fathers. He had made a vow before the Lord, and
Repentance today is a byword. It conjures up images of a religious fanatic standing on a street corner with a cheap megaphone that more obscures the sound than amplifies it.
In this episode we see how John, the last prophet of the Old Covenant, transitions us to the New Covenant era by announcing the arrival of the LORD in the
Hosea 13 contains mostly words of rebuke and condemnation. But there is good news there as well. The Lord rebukes his son, Israel, whom he called out of Egypt, for
We look at the significance of a trio of prophecies: the flight to Egypt, Jeremiah’s prophecy of the weeping of Rachel, and that “he would be called a Nazarene.” Matthew
What does Paul mean when he says that all things in heaven and earth will be united in Christ? The apostle moves from what Christ did on the cross for
Redemption is the work of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Pauline trinitarian emphasis is something that may be somewhat lacking in modern preaching, but is essential
The Lord pronounces an indictment upon Israel and convicts her of her sins. He also calls her to repentance and to return to him. The coming judgment in exile reminds
How do you preach a passage as speckled and mottled as this one? We look at a text that at first glance has nothing to say about Christ and see
Hosea prophesied that God would call his son out of Egypt. Of course, that was long after the Exodus. But here in Chapter 11 the Exodus serves as a motif
The apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a building to describe the people of God. What is the significance of this metaphor, and what are the implications of that, particularly
What does it mean to be predestined, and to what end does God predestine his people? Robert Arendale joins us again in an exposition of this important passage, including a
This section of Genesis showcases an alarming lack of dependence upon God, which results in deception and contention in Jacob’s family. Here we see the foundation laid for much of
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus to remind them of the “unsearchable riches” of Christ (3:8). That is, he writes to remind the Christians living in that
Jacob’s search for a bride parallels two other searches, all of which point us to Christ who offers the water of life and becomes a servant to secure his bride.
In Hosea 10 the prophet likens Israel to a vineyard and and garden – but not a very fruitful one. In fact, her covenants with the nations has given rise
Occasionally the New Testament provides a direct connection to the words of the Old, pointing like a bright beacon to the person of Christ. We find that is the case
Although Jacob and Esau both show themselves unworthy to inherit the covenant promises, we see, through two theological paradigms—the offspring and the land—that God Almighty will lead his people to
Matthew’s account of the visit of the Magi is not exactly the story as we know it from our cultural Christmas traditions. The response of these wisemen to the birth
In today’s episode we look at Matthew’s account of the genesis of Jesus. In this account of his birth story Matthew draws our attention to the particular perspective of Joseph,
Hosea ministers in Israel between the time of the conquest of Canaan and the exile. In chapter nine of his prophecy, he tells of the coming judgment-exile of Israel into
Esau has been disqualified to receive the covenant blessing, but Isaac intends to give it to him anyway. In fact, none of the four characters in this chapter is painted
Paul once again admonishes the church in Corinth over its division into rival parties with some following Paul, and other Apollos. Paul rebukes them because this behavior is of the
In this passage, the Apostle Paul highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as the revealer and illuminator of the wisdom of God, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In Genesis 26, God confirms the covenant promise to Isaac—the heart of which is “I will be with you.” In this episode, we see how God not only keeps this
As the Gospel According to Matthew begins we are introduced to the royal line of Jesus, where Matthew presents Jesus to us as the Davidic king, the universal king, and
Hosea brings a word of judgment upon Israel, threatening to send them into exile and judgment for their sin. Christ as the true and obedient Israel secures for his people
In an age of skepticism, Fredrich Schleiermacher wanted to cast religion in a manner that would be relevant and respected. In Episode 86 Jim Cassidy and Mark Winder discuss how
Jim Cassidy shows us how Israel’s folly and sinfulness renders her incapable of obeying God. In order to obey the Lord, she needs the Lord to grant to her the
Joel Fick shows us how important it is to bring various passages of Scripture to bear upon one another, particularly where one may fill in the gap for the other.
Mark Winder shows us how in the story of Isaac which parallels that of Abraham, there is a theological point being made: from a human perspective there is one crisis
Jim Cassidy gives us a primer on covenant theology. As Israel, shaped by the law, becomes an analogy of Adam as Adam is in covenant with God in the garden,
In episode 81, Joel Fick leads us in a study of the birth of Moses. He demonstrates a model of preaching Christ not based upon merely noting a few parallels
Knowledge is not an end in itself, it is a means to an end that we might know the new world of God. When we understand that we are citizens
The conflict between Jacob and Esau serves as a paradigm for the redemptive conflict of the ages. God uses what the world would consider weak to accomplish his plan and
In Episode 78 the panel discusses how the story of redemption shifts focus from Abraham to his descendants, and particularly to Isaac and Jacob. Employing a covenantal and redemptive-historical hermeneutic
In this 67-verse chapter we examine some of the patterns and themes in this narrative full of intrigue. We discuss the transition of the covenant promises to Isaac, the providence
Glen Clary examines the matter and manner of Paul’s preaching. There is a crucifixion proclaimed by Paul, but there is also a cruciformity in how he proclaimed it, and to
In Episode 75 we see that because of our sin imputed to Christ, he stood condemned under the wrath of God. But Christ’s resurrection is the Word of Grace—Christ’s vindication.
In Episode 74 we observe what seems to be an ordinary bartering transaction. But upon closer observation we learn three significant things: Abraham is given a downpayment on the land
Adam York show us how God is presenting in the life of Isaac a type of the work of the future Messiah, who would come, be offered as a substitute
Joel Fick continues his introduction to the book of Exodus as he explores a fruitful people, a ferocious king, and the faithful God. Exodus shows us how the people of
In this introductory episode to the book of Exodus, Joel Fick explains how important it is to glance backwards and see what God is doing, even as we look forward
Abraham’s willingness to offer up his son Isaac at God’s command is a remarkable demonstration of obedience. He demonstrates not that he was justified by works, but that the hope
In this “bookend” text, a remarkable change is seen in Abraham, who demonstrates how a pilgrim is to conduct himself in a foreign land, and how he is identified through
In Episode 68, Jim Cassidy takes us through Hosea 4, where we see that God is judging his people because of their lack of a knowledge of him. Scripture shows
There are two kinds of wisdom—human and divine. The foolishness of preaching shatters the illusion of human wisdom and displays the wisdom of God, that the believer’s boast should be
In Episode 66, Jim Cassidy opens up Hosea 3, where God commands the prophet to buy his faithless wife back from slavery. This picture of redemption points to Jesus Christ,
In episode 65, Adam York examines Sarah’s laughter and her treatment of Hagar, gleaning from the passage important principles for interpretation. We do not approach Old Testament narratives looking a
In episode 64 we open up Genesis 20 and find a duplicate of what took place eight chapter earlier. To protect himself, Abraham tries to pass off his wife, Sarah,
The preacher should not preach in such a way that draws listeners to his own wisdom, but draws them to place their faith and trust in Christ alone as they
Hosea points to Jesus, who, as the new and final Israel, does not remain under the power of death forever. But Christ is raised from the dead in the vindicating
In a startling episode of fear and worldliness we find the hope of the gospel. Learn how the person and work of Christ can be preached from what seems to
Lot can not save himself—God has to do it. In his mercy he provides for Lot’s salvation even through the destruction of the city of man, and in so doing
The mercy that the Lord shows initially will be undone in judgment. But there is grace, restoration, and redemption for those who repent and trust in Christ. Participants: Jim Cassidy,
Lot serves as a paradigm or picture of the salvation of sinners and judgment upon unbelievers. Sinners are not saved because they suddenly figure out God’s mercy and come running
In Episode 57, we see that despite oncoming judgment, the passage underscores the deep relationship between God and Abraham. It is covenantal at its core. Participants: Adam York, Mark A.
Here’s the big pictures of 1 Corinthians 1 and 2, particularly focusing on the wisdom of God as the doctrinal and ethical antithesis to world, and an introduction to Paul’s
In the battle in which we must fight, Jesus is what we need, and Jesus is all we need. Participants: Adam York, Mark A. Winder, Mark Jenkins
Genesis 18 provides a prototypical picture of the feast the believers have with their King in the heavenly places. It does so in the context of Sarah demonstrating an imperfect
Hosea is made us of a series of cycles—of judgment and redemption. Here we begin looking at the first cycle of good news and redemption, as the prophet brings a
Here we seek to answer three questions: First, “What is the meaning of circumcision?” Second, “What is the purpose of circumcision? and third, “To whom is circumcision to be applied”
God re-names Sarai—again reflecting his covenant promise. And one essential characteristic of the covenant of promise is that covenant community will always be comprised of elect and non-elect. Inseparable from the
Paul appeals to the believers at Corinth to be united, and admonishes them to abandon their factionalism. Paul reminds them that he did not do anything among them that would draw
As the Abrahamic Covenant is expanded, it builds upon the revelation given in chapters 12 and 15. Through this everlasting covenant God will bring life to those who are dead
Our situation calls for serious self-discipline because the days are evil, and joyful celebration because God has rescued us from that evil in Jesus Christ. Participants: Adam York, Glen Clary,
Israel was called God’s son—a status under threat here in Hosea—as graphically demonstrated in the naming of Hosea’s children. God’s pending divorce of Israel points to the only way for
We welcome Glen Clary as our newest panelist, as he opens Paul’s eucharistic prayer concerning the church of God at Corinth. He centers it around the believer’s union with Christ—the
A remarkable picture of God’s grace given to an undeserving Egyptian woman, is used by the apostle Paul as a divinely inspired allegory of the way in which God operates
God has made his covenant with Abram, and now ratifies it through a solemn covenant ceremony that points to the supernatural character of the covenant’s nature and its keeping. Participants:
The Book of Hosea opens up with a shocking command as God tells the prophet to “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom.” Hosea’s
On the heels of a tremendous victory, Abram has a choice to make. Not necessarily an easy one if his focus was on earthly things. Here’s Abram’s chance to make
Here are some clear cut commands—not therapeutic suggestions. Paul is not only explicit about the standard to which Christians are called, he is also explicit about why we are to
In a book written to a church full of problems, what is there for which to be thankful? Explore the Apostle Paul’s passionate and pastoral tone as he tackles the
After deliverance from Egypt, God’s people head back to the promised land. Nevertheless, they continue to stand in need of deliverance, for their warfare has not ended. Participants: Adam York,
In Episode 38 of Proclaiming Christ, our newest panelist, Jim Cassidy, provides our listeners with a model of biblical interpretation through an introduction to the book of Hosea. Participants: Jim
In Episode 37 of Proclaiming Christ, we see that right on the heals of God making a covenant with him, Abram is tested with a famine that sends him to
Proclaiming Christ is back with a new format, new panelist, and new biblical texts to explore. Look for a new episode each week. As they get back into the groove,
In this episode we discuss God’s promise to Abram—particularly his pledge to grant him a seed, a land, and to give Abram his own divine presence. Participants: Adam York, Mark
In this episode we discuss how God called Abram to leave behind his homeland and set out to a land that God would show him. We also consider how such
In this episode we discuss the gathering in Genesis 11 to build a city and tower for the name of man. This chapter provides many themes that will be explored
In this episode we discuss the canonical, biblical theological, and historical significance of the genealogy of Genesis 10. We also discuss the challenges and problems of how to preach genealogical
In this episode we discuss Noah and Adam, the sin of Noah, and the redemptive-historical significance of the oracles which Noah pronounces regarding his three sons. Participants: Adam York, Mark
In this episode we discuss the covenant that God establishes between Noah, his sons, and with every living creature on the earth. This covenant begins being contemplated back in 8:20
In this episode we discuss Genesis 9:1–7 and how various creation mandates are given again to Noah and his family as they emerge from the ark. We also consider the
In this episode we discuss the reappearing role of God’s Spirit and how the Spirit has a pivotal role in both creation and consummation. We discuss the symbolic and theological
In this episode we discuss Noah’s ark and the flood judgment which God brought on the world. Amazingly, we see ways in which the entire passage not only reveals the
In this episode we discuss God’s command to Noah to build an ark. What is the theological significance of the ark itself? We discuss this matter as well as how
In this episode we discuss Genesis 6:9–13. We consider how to select a sermon pericope using this passage as an example. We also consider what it means for Noah to
In this episode we discuss the growth of wickedness on the earth after the fall leading up to the great flood judgment. This passage also helps us to see the
We consider the genealogy of Adam’s Descendants to Noah in this episode. This is the book of the generations of Adam. When God created man, he made him in the
Today we discuss the genealogy found in Genesis 4:16–22. In it, we see the realization that God will put enmity between the two lines mentioned in Genesis 3:15 and how
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss Cain’s brutal murder of Abel and consider this act in light of God’s promises made in ch. 3. The brutality and desperation of human
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss the different offerings that Cain and Abel bring to the Lord, and we look at the theological significance of those offerings. Genesis 4:1–7 Now
This week, Proclaiming Christ explores the provision for life as seen in Adam and Eve’s response to God’s curse. Genesis 3:20–24: The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she
In this episode the panel discusses the effects of the fall on men and women in their distinctive roles and vocations and on the whole of humanity. Genesis 3:16–19—To the
On today’s episode, we unpack Genesis 3:13-15, a pronouncement of judgment upon the serpent, but also of grace and good news for Adam and Eve. We examine other passages in
In this episode we discuss Genesis 3:9-12, and consider God’s pursuit of rebellious Adam. On the one hand, God clearly calls Adam into account for his sin, but on the
This week we discuss Genesis 3:8-10. Following Meredith Kline, we argue that in 3:8, God walks in the garden in the wind or spirit of the day. God’s Spirit is involved
On this week’s Proclaiming Christ, we discuss the temptation in Eden from Genesis 3:1-7. Man and woman begin naked and unashamed in a royal wedding, but abruptly, an evil serpent
On today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2:18-24. We begin today’s discussion by finishing up talking about the two trees in the garden from our previous episode and then we discuss
On Today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2 broadly and the covenant God made with Adam. We consider objections to and reasons for saying that Adam was in a covenant. We
On Today’s episode we discuss the garden of Eden and the description given to it in Genesis 2:8-15. We discuss how the garden motif found in Genesis 2 permeates the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we address the issue of whether there are two different creation accounts: one in chapter 1 and another in chapter 2. We discuss the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss the creation mandate given to Adam and the promise of Sabbath rest. We invite your comments and questions. Participants: Adam York, Chad
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss days 4-6 of the creation account in Genesis 1. We continue the discussion of light and darkness in creation as it pertains
In this episode we discuss verses 3-13 of Genesis 1: the first three creation days. We discuss the covenantal character of creation, the theological dimensions of these days, God’s dominion
In this episode we discuss the first two verses of Genesis 1. The episode focuses on the centrality of God in creation. We begin by discussing some interpretive assumptions involved in reading this
Proclaiming Christ considers an introduction to the book of Genesis, looking at creation as it points to the eschatological glory of God.
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ the panel considers sermon delivery. We discuss things like: whether to use a manuscript or not, sermon application, resources, and things not to do
In this week’s episode we discuss sermon preparation. As the panel considers the kind of work that must go on before a preacher is ready to preach, we discuss things
On this episode of Proclaiming Christ we talk about presuppositions that underlie the sermon preparation process. In particular, we deal with presuppositions which govern the proper reading and interpretation of
In this, the premiere episode of Proclaiming Christ, we introduce the panelists for this new Reformed Forum podcast on biblical preaching. We also begin to discuss foundational aspects of preaching. We welcome
The great Reformer, Martin Luther, once said that prayer is the breath of the soul. Christians pray! We are a people called to live and to walk in close fellowship
The story of the healing of the paralytic is a picture of God’s work of redemption through Jesus Christ. We are healed—saved—not because we merit favor, but because of the
Sinners don’t deserve God’s kindness, but he raises those dead in sins and trespasses to life in Christ (Eph. 2). Hope rises from the dead in Naomi through Boaz’s kindness
Triple tragedies strike Jacob in chapter 35. The death of his beloved Rachel, his firstborn son’s violation reprehensible sin disqualifying him from leadership, and his father Esau’s death. Yet in
God begins to turn around Naomi’s life in Ruth 2:1-13, a picture of what he does for his church. Ruth ventures into the fields in faith and just “happens” to
What does ‘mystery’ have to do with Paul’s ministry? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is somehow mysterious? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is difficult to understand? Not at
In Ruth 1, God brings back a wandering sheep in Naomi, showing us his grace and power. But Naomi still thinks God has dealt bitterly with her and defines herself
If you lived in the ancient city of Ephesus, the most majestic structure that you would see on a daily basis would be the temple to the pagan goddess, Artemis.
In Genesis 35 we have the “and back again” portion of Jacob’s journey. He comes back to where he started. Jacob’s journey back to Bethel marks the end of a
What happens when you leave the people of God and venture to a far country? And when tragedy strikes there, is there any hope that God’s grace can restore what
There is a transition that occurs between the ministry of John the Baptist and the Ministry of Jesus. John begins to decrease, and Jesus begins to increase. The Lord Jesus
Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act
Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and
Although humanity is dead and lost in sin, with no way to merit favor with God, God is rich in mercy and loves his people with a great love. Those
In this episode, we introduce the Gospel of Mark. We also explore how Mark introduces us to the person of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Of special interest is the
Moses brings us to the height of the conflict between Jacob and Esau. We look at the need to preserve the tension in the story while connecting it to the
In this episode, we consider the reality that mankind, apart from God’s glorious grace, is completely and totally lost in sin. Before Paul moves to extol the riches of God’s
In this episode, we explain the meaning of David’s profession of righteousness. How can David speak about himself as being without guilt, relative to God’s law, when we know he
In part two of Paul’s Prayer we return to consider Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers. Yes, Paul’s burden is that the Ephesian believers would know the Lord. But what specifically
In part one of Paul’s Prayer, we will examine how the apostle Paul prays for the Spirit to be at work so that Christians can know God more. Paul’s thankfulness
Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will
What is a Christian to do with the imprecatory Psalms? Are they to be read and sung today, and if so, with what understanding? Jim Cassidy talks about how to
As Jacob continues toward Canaan in obedience to God’s call, he comes up against another significant obstacle: Esau is coming to meet him Genesis 32:1–12—preparing for conflict with a small
This episode looks at the testing of Jesus that comes on the heels of his baptism. At his baptism, the Father declares “This is my beloved Son, with whom I
Psalm 2 speaks of rebellious kings conspiring together against the Lord and his anointed. But the outcome of such conspiracies is clear. The Son will have the earth as his
In Eph 1:11–14 the Apostle Paul describes the glorious heavenly inheritance of the Christian. He seeks to encourage the Ephesian Christians—many of whom had given up earthly glory—by reminding them
The narrative portions of Scripture serve to highlight the paradigm established by Genesis 3:15. In the story of Jacob and Laban we see primarily not a conflict between two human
We embark on a study through a new book—Psalms. Jim Cassidy provides some important interpretive principles which he illustrates through a consideration of Psalm 1. Written for Israel, a nation
The baptism of Jesus is a pivotal event in the life of Christ and in all of redemptive history. In this episode, we explore its significance, seek to answer the
Jacob exhibits his faith as he responds in obedience to the Lord’s command to return to the land of his fathers. He had made a vow before the Lord, and
Repentance today is a byword. It conjures up images of a religious fanatic standing on a street corner with a cheap megaphone that more obscures the sound than amplifies it.
In this episode we see how John, the last prophet of the Old Covenant, transitions us to the New Covenant era by announcing the arrival of the LORD in the
Hosea 13 contains mostly words of rebuke and condemnation. But there is good news there as well. The Lord rebukes his son, Israel, whom he called out of Egypt, for
We look at the significance of a trio of prophecies: the flight to Egypt, Jeremiah’s prophecy of the weeping of Rachel, and that “he would be called a Nazarene.” Matthew
What does Paul mean when he says that all things in heaven and earth will be united in Christ? The apostle moves from what Christ did on the cross for
Redemption is the work of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Pauline trinitarian emphasis is something that may be somewhat lacking in modern preaching, but is essential
The Lord pronounces an indictment upon Israel and convicts her of her sins. He also calls her to repentance and to return to him. The coming judgment in exile reminds
How do you preach a passage as speckled and mottled as this one? We look at a text that at first glance has nothing to say about Christ and see
Hosea prophesied that God would call his son out of Egypt. Of course, that was long after the Exodus. But here in Chapter 11 the Exodus serves as a motif
The apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a building to describe the people of God. What is the significance of this metaphor, and what are the implications of that, particularly
What does it mean to be predestined, and to what end does God predestine his people? Robert Arendale joins us again in an exposition of this important passage, including a
This section of Genesis showcases an alarming lack of dependence upon God, which results in deception and contention in Jacob’s family. Here we see the foundation laid for much of
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus to remind them of the “unsearchable riches” of Christ (3:8). That is, he writes to remind the Christians living in that
Jacob’s search for a bride parallels two other searches, all of which point us to Christ who offers the water of life and becomes a servant to secure his bride.
In Hosea 10 the prophet likens Israel to a vineyard and and garden – but not a very fruitful one. In fact, her covenants with the nations has given rise
Occasionally the New Testament provides a direct connection to the words of the Old, pointing like a bright beacon to the person of Christ. We find that is the case
Although Jacob and Esau both show themselves unworthy to inherit the covenant promises, we see, through two theological paradigms—the offspring and the land—that God Almighty will lead his people to
Matthew’s account of the visit of the Magi is not exactly the story as we know it from our cultural Christmas traditions. The response of these wisemen to the birth
In today’s episode we look at Matthew’s account of the genesis of Jesus. In this account of his birth story Matthew draws our attention to the particular perspective of Joseph,
Hosea ministers in Israel between the time of the conquest of Canaan and the exile. In chapter nine of his prophecy, he tells of the coming judgment-exile of Israel into
Esau has been disqualified to receive the covenant blessing, but Isaac intends to give it to him anyway. In fact, none of the four characters in this chapter is painted
Paul once again admonishes the church in Corinth over its division into rival parties with some following Paul, and other Apollos. Paul rebukes them because this behavior is of the
In this passage, the Apostle Paul highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as the revealer and illuminator of the wisdom of God, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In Genesis 26, God confirms the covenant promise to Isaac—the heart of which is “I will be with you.” In this episode, we see how God not only keeps this
As the Gospel According to Matthew begins we are introduced to the royal line of Jesus, where Matthew presents Jesus to us as the Davidic king, the universal king, and
Hosea brings a word of judgment upon Israel, threatening to send them into exile and judgment for their sin. Christ as the true and obedient Israel secures for his people
In an age of skepticism, Fredrich Schleiermacher wanted to cast religion in a manner that would be relevant and respected. In Episode 86 Jim Cassidy and Mark Winder discuss how
Jim Cassidy shows us how Israel’s folly and sinfulness renders her incapable of obeying God. In order to obey the Lord, she needs the Lord to grant to her the
Joel Fick shows us how important it is to bring various passages of Scripture to bear upon one another, particularly where one may fill in the gap for the other.
Mark Winder shows us how in the story of Isaac which parallels that of Abraham, there is a theological point being made: from a human perspective there is one crisis
Jim Cassidy gives us a primer on covenant theology. As Israel, shaped by the law, becomes an analogy of Adam as Adam is in covenant with God in the garden,
In episode 81, Joel Fick leads us in a study of the birth of Moses. He demonstrates a model of preaching Christ not based upon merely noting a few parallels
Knowledge is not an end in itself, it is a means to an end that we might know the new world of God. When we understand that we are citizens
The conflict between Jacob and Esau serves as a paradigm for the redemptive conflict of the ages. God uses what the world would consider weak to accomplish his plan and
In Episode 78 the panel discusses how the story of redemption shifts focus from Abraham to his descendants, and particularly to Isaac and Jacob. Employing a covenantal and redemptive-historical hermeneutic
In this 67-verse chapter we examine some of the patterns and themes in this narrative full of intrigue. We discuss the transition of the covenant promises to Isaac, the providence
Glen Clary examines the matter and manner of Paul’s preaching. There is a crucifixion proclaimed by Paul, but there is also a cruciformity in how he proclaimed it, and to
In Episode 75 we see that because of our sin imputed to Christ, he stood condemned under the wrath of God. But Christ’s resurrection is the Word of Grace—Christ’s vindication.
In Episode 74 we observe what seems to be an ordinary bartering transaction. But upon closer observation we learn three significant things: Abraham is given a downpayment on the land
Adam York show us how God is presenting in the life of Isaac a type of the work of the future Messiah, who would come, be offered as a substitute
Joel Fick continues his introduction to the book of Exodus as he explores a fruitful people, a ferocious king, and the faithful God. Exodus shows us how the people of
In this introductory episode to the book of Exodus, Joel Fick explains how important it is to glance backwards and see what God is doing, even as we look forward
Abraham’s willingness to offer up his son Isaac at God’s command is a remarkable demonstration of obedience. He demonstrates not that he was justified by works, but that the hope
In this “bookend” text, a remarkable change is seen in Abraham, who demonstrates how a pilgrim is to conduct himself in a foreign land, and how he is identified through
In Episode 68, Jim Cassidy takes us through Hosea 4, where we see that God is judging his people because of their lack of a knowledge of him. Scripture shows
There are two kinds of wisdom—human and divine. The foolishness of preaching shatters the illusion of human wisdom and displays the wisdom of God, that the believer’s boast should be
In Episode 66, Jim Cassidy opens up Hosea 3, where God commands the prophet to buy his faithless wife back from slavery. This picture of redemption points to Jesus Christ,
In episode 65, Adam York examines Sarah’s laughter and her treatment of Hagar, gleaning from the passage important principles for interpretation. We do not approach Old Testament narratives looking a
In episode 64 we open up Genesis 20 and find a duplicate of what took place eight chapter earlier. To protect himself, Abraham tries to pass off his wife, Sarah,
The preacher should not preach in such a way that draws listeners to his own wisdom, but draws them to place their faith and trust in Christ alone as they
Hosea points to Jesus, who, as the new and final Israel, does not remain under the power of death forever. But Christ is raised from the dead in the vindicating
In a startling episode of fear and worldliness we find the hope of the gospel. Learn how the person and work of Christ can be preached from what seems to
Lot can not save himself—God has to do it. In his mercy he provides for Lot’s salvation even through the destruction of the city of man, and in so doing
The mercy that the Lord shows initially will be undone in judgment. But there is grace, restoration, and redemption for those who repent and trust in Christ. Participants: Jim Cassidy,
Lot serves as a paradigm or picture of the salvation of sinners and judgment upon unbelievers. Sinners are not saved because they suddenly figure out God’s mercy and come running
In Episode 57, we see that despite oncoming judgment, the passage underscores the deep relationship between God and Abraham. It is covenantal at its core. Participants: Adam York, Mark A.
Here’s the big pictures of 1 Corinthians 1 and 2, particularly focusing on the wisdom of God as the doctrinal and ethical antithesis to world, and an introduction to Paul’s
In the battle in which we must fight, Jesus is what we need, and Jesus is all we need. Participants: Adam York, Mark A. Winder, Mark Jenkins
Genesis 18 provides a prototypical picture of the feast the believers have with their King in the heavenly places. It does so in the context of Sarah demonstrating an imperfect
Hosea is made us of a series of cycles—of judgment and redemption. Here we begin looking at the first cycle of good news and redemption, as the prophet brings a
Here we seek to answer three questions: First, “What is the meaning of circumcision?” Second, “What is the purpose of circumcision? and third, “To whom is circumcision to be applied”
God re-names Sarai—again reflecting his covenant promise. And one essential characteristic of the covenant of promise is that covenant community will always be comprised of elect and non-elect. Inseparable from the
Paul appeals to the believers at Corinth to be united, and admonishes them to abandon their factionalism. Paul reminds them that he did not do anything among them that would draw
As the Abrahamic Covenant is expanded, it builds upon the revelation given in chapters 12 and 15. Through this everlasting covenant God will bring life to those who are dead
Our situation calls for serious self-discipline because the days are evil, and joyful celebration because God has rescued us from that evil in Jesus Christ. Participants: Adam York, Glen Clary,
Israel was called God’s son—a status under threat here in Hosea—as graphically demonstrated in the naming of Hosea’s children. God’s pending divorce of Israel points to the only way for
We welcome Glen Clary as our newest panelist, as he opens Paul’s eucharistic prayer concerning the church of God at Corinth. He centers it around the believer’s union with Christ—the
A remarkable picture of God’s grace given to an undeserving Egyptian woman, is used by the apostle Paul as a divinely inspired allegory of the way in which God operates
God has made his covenant with Abram, and now ratifies it through a solemn covenant ceremony that points to the supernatural character of the covenant’s nature and its keeping. Participants:
The Book of Hosea opens up with a shocking command as God tells the prophet to “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom.” Hosea’s
On the heels of a tremendous victory, Abram has a choice to make. Not necessarily an easy one if his focus was on earthly things. Here’s Abram’s chance to make
Here are some clear cut commands—not therapeutic suggestions. Paul is not only explicit about the standard to which Christians are called, he is also explicit about why we are to
In a book written to a church full of problems, what is there for which to be thankful? Explore the Apostle Paul’s passionate and pastoral tone as he tackles the
After deliverance from Egypt, God’s people head back to the promised land. Nevertheless, they continue to stand in need of deliverance, for their warfare has not ended. Participants: Adam York,
In Episode 38 of Proclaiming Christ, our newest panelist, Jim Cassidy, provides our listeners with a model of biblical interpretation through an introduction to the book of Hosea. Participants: Jim
In Episode 37 of Proclaiming Christ, we see that right on the heals of God making a covenant with him, Abram is tested with a famine that sends him to
Proclaiming Christ is back with a new format, new panelist, and new biblical texts to explore. Look for a new episode each week. As they get back into the groove,
In this episode we discuss God’s promise to Abram—particularly his pledge to grant him a seed, a land, and to give Abram his own divine presence. Participants: Adam York, Mark
In this episode we discuss how God called Abram to leave behind his homeland and set out to a land that God would show him. We also consider how such
In this episode we discuss the gathering in Genesis 11 to build a city and tower for the name of man. This chapter provides many themes that will be explored
In this episode we discuss the canonical, biblical theological, and historical significance of the genealogy of Genesis 10. We also discuss the challenges and problems of how to preach genealogical
In this episode we discuss Noah and Adam, the sin of Noah, and the redemptive-historical significance of the oracles which Noah pronounces regarding his three sons. Participants: Adam York, Mark
In this episode we discuss the covenant that God establishes between Noah, his sons, and with every living creature on the earth. This covenant begins being contemplated back in 8:20
In this episode we discuss Genesis 9:1–7 and how various creation mandates are given again to Noah and his family as they emerge from the ark. We also consider the
In this episode we discuss the reappearing role of God’s Spirit and how the Spirit has a pivotal role in both creation and consummation. We discuss the symbolic and theological
In this episode we discuss Noah’s ark and the flood judgment which God brought on the world. Amazingly, we see ways in which the entire passage not only reveals the
In this episode we discuss God’s command to Noah to build an ark. What is the theological significance of the ark itself? We discuss this matter as well as how
In this episode we discuss Genesis 6:9–13. We consider how to select a sermon pericope using this passage as an example. We also consider what it means for Noah to
In this episode we discuss the growth of wickedness on the earth after the fall leading up to the great flood judgment. This passage also helps us to see the
We consider the genealogy of Adam’s Descendants to Noah in this episode. This is the book of the generations of Adam. When God created man, he made him in the
Today we discuss the genealogy found in Genesis 4:16–22. In it, we see the realization that God will put enmity between the two lines mentioned in Genesis 3:15 and how
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss Cain’s brutal murder of Abel and consider this act in light of God’s promises made in ch. 3. The brutality and desperation of human
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss the different offerings that Cain and Abel bring to the Lord, and we look at the theological significance of those offerings. Genesis 4:1–7 Now
This week, Proclaiming Christ explores the provision for life as seen in Adam and Eve’s response to God’s curse. Genesis 3:20–24: The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she
In this episode the panel discusses the effects of the fall on men and women in their distinctive roles and vocations and on the whole of humanity. Genesis 3:16–19—To the
On today’s episode, we unpack Genesis 3:13-15, a pronouncement of judgment upon the serpent, but also of grace and good news for Adam and Eve. We examine other passages in
In this episode we discuss Genesis 3:9-12, and consider God’s pursuit of rebellious Adam. On the one hand, God clearly calls Adam into account for his sin, but on the
This week we discuss Genesis 3:8-10. Following Meredith Kline, we argue that in 3:8, God walks in the garden in the wind or spirit of the day. God’s Spirit is involved
On this week’s Proclaiming Christ, we discuss the temptation in Eden from Genesis 3:1-7. Man and woman begin naked and unashamed in a royal wedding, but abruptly, an evil serpent
On today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2:18-24. We begin today’s discussion by finishing up talking about the two trees in the garden from our previous episode and then we discuss
On Today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2 broadly and the covenant God made with Adam. We consider objections to and reasons for saying that Adam was in a covenant. We
On Today’s episode we discuss the garden of Eden and the description given to it in Genesis 2:8-15. We discuss how the garden motif found in Genesis 2 permeates the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we address the issue of whether there are two different creation accounts: one in chapter 1 and another in chapter 2. We discuss the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss the creation mandate given to Adam and the promise of Sabbath rest. We invite your comments and questions. Participants: Adam York, Chad
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss days 4-6 of the creation account in Genesis 1. We continue the discussion of light and darkness in creation as it pertains
In this episode we discuss verses 3-13 of Genesis 1: the first three creation days. We discuss the covenantal character of creation, the theological dimensions of these days, God’s dominion
In this episode we discuss the first two verses of Genesis 1. The episode focuses on the centrality of God in creation. We begin by discussing some interpretive assumptions involved in reading this
Proclaiming Christ considers an introduction to the book of Genesis, looking at creation as it points to the eschatological glory of God.
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ the panel considers sermon delivery. We discuss things like: whether to use a manuscript or not, sermon application, resources, and things not to do
In this week’s episode we discuss sermon preparation. As the panel considers the kind of work that must go on before a preacher is ready to preach, we discuss things
On this episode of Proclaiming Christ we talk about presuppositions that underlie the sermon preparation process. In particular, we deal with presuppositions which govern the proper reading and interpretation of
In this, the premiere episode of Proclaiming Christ, we introduce the panelists for this new Reformed Forum podcast on biblical preaching. We also begin to discuss foundational aspects of preaching. We welcome
In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses, which
In this episode we turn to Geerhardus Vos’s discussion on divine fatherhood as presented in Biblical Theology (pp. 365–369). Vos masterfully traces the theme of God’s fatherhood from the Old
In this special live recording of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, Jim Cassidy, and guest Marcus Mininger explore the vital topic of redemptive historical interpretation. Dr. Mininger is
In this episode we welcome Dr. Jean Decorvet and Dr. Kenneth Stewart to explore The Geneva Réveil, a significant yet often overlooked nineteenth-century evangelical revival that reshaped French-speaking Protestantism and
